Articles, tags, posts about my mugshot, theories about my so-called rap sheet, and statements from Cory’s little minions trying to paint me as the villain.

Surprisingly, however, I don’t really give a damn. Not even a little. So much so that I finally decide to put an end to Cory’s nonsense once and for all.

I send a group text to my friends and family, letting them know it’s time.

Vic glances at his phone, reading the message, and I feel his eyes on me. He looks proud. He nods, squeezing my hand, silently telling me he’s got my back.

Beverly Mills-Greer Crew

Me: We’re touching down soon, and I’m determined to enjoy the rest of my life in peace, love, and happiness. So… let’s put this shit to rest (sorry, Mom and Dad, for the language). Leak the recordings.

Serena: Hell yeah! Expose that monster.

Mama: You’re so brave, Kerry.

Vicky: I’ll send them over to the Governor, judge, and GBI first. We’ll make sure to do this right before we release all hell on his ass.

Gabe: You sure you wanna do this? There’s no going back.

Me: You’re right, there isn’t. We only move forward around here.

Vic smirks, lifts my hand to his lips, and presses a slow, reverent kiss to my knuckles. “You’re bold as hell, Ms. Kind. And I’ve never been prouder to be your man.”

“Oh yeah? Just how proud are you?” I arch a brow, lips curving.

Then, he slides his hand under my dress and shows me exactly how proud he is.

~~~

When we arrive at my parents’ house, the barrage of cars automatically stands out. Everyone’s here, but I’m not quite sure if that’s a good or bad thing.

I don’t have to wonder for long because as soon as we open the door, Syd and Ari bulldoze us with hugs and kisses.

“Finally!” Ari says, squeezing me tight. “We missed you so much! How was the honeymoon?”

Vic and I freeze. We blink at each other. Then, a loud, uncontrollable laughter erupts.

“Honeymoon?” Vic chuckles, shaking his head. “It was just a weekend getaway.”

Ari’s face scrunches in pure disappointment. “Oh. I thought for sure you would’ve got married. You guys have been dating forever.”

I choke on my own laughter while Vic frowns. “Forever?”

Syd leans into Ari’s ear, but everyone hears her little whisper. “She must’ve told him no. Daddy ain’t got no game.”

I lose it. Vic’s mouth falls open, and everyone in the room bursts into laughter.

Vic scowls at his daughters, but there’s amusement dancing behind his glare. “Okay, you two, we didn’t go get married but we definitely brought back some of your favorite desserts, including carrot cake. Now, go play.”